RENEWED calls have been made to Dover Harbour Board to stop allowing exports of live animals.

About 35 campaigners took part in a peaceful demonstration outside the entrance to the Eastern Docks at the weekend. Freight and car drivers using the port sounded their horns in support.

The protest was organised by Compassion in World Farming (CIWF) and Kent Against Live Exports (KALE). September marks the start of the trade as lambs born earlier this year reach the weight at which they can be transported.

Marie-Claire Davies of CIWF said: "Long journeys across Europe cause the animals to become severely distressed and dehydrated. Journeys can last anything from 30 to 90 hours."

Earlier this year campaigners were celebrating after Dart Line, a company based in Dartford banned live exports after campaigners met with directors.

"Dover is the only place in England that allows the live trade in animals," added Ian Burchall, chairman of KALE. "The problem is that Dover is a free port and under maritime law it cannot refuse ships entry or exit."

Mark Johnson, of CIWF added: "Think of the prestige the cruise liners bring to Dover, that is why I don't think this trade does anything for the Port.

"The Port has also reported growing traffic figures during recent months; I cannot imagine that they desperately need this trade in live animals."

A spokesman for Dover Harbour Board said: "The situation has not changed since 1994 when courts ruled that shipment of live animals was a legal trade and that ports had to facilitate all trades. We cannot distinguish between different trades."